How To Use A Gemological Microscope
A gemological microscope is the microscope used by jewelers and gem stone experts. These microscopes are especially created to view precious stone samples and the pieces of jewelry that contain them. The proper ways of using gemological microscopes are on the article below:
Gem stone experts need one important tool in their jobs. And that would be a precision microscope that is capable of inspecting diamonds, emeralds, rubies, and all other types of precious stones. These microscopes are complex microscopes that are equipped with multiple illumination systems to enhance the image of the samples.
Gemological microscopes are usually used to inspect the authenticity of gemstones and in the design, creation, and repair of jewelry. And because these microscopes are used with items of value, it is important that these would be used properly to enhance their usefulness.
Here are the steps on how to properly use gemological microscopes:
1. Place the microscope on a flat surface.
When using gemological microscopes, or any type of microscope for that matter, always make sure that it is placed on a leveled surface before starting any observation tasks. Make sure that the microscope is far from any water source as well. When using the microscope, use a table or a chair that matches your height as its user. That way, you won’t be straining your back while looking at the sample.
2. Prepare the microscope for first line calibration.
After setting the gemological microscope on its proper place, calibrate its focus using the lowest objective available. Most gemological microscopes have a single objective lens, although it is capable of several magnification levels. Make sure that the microscope is set at the lowest level. Look through the eyepiece and make sure everything is aligned and in order. You might also want to check the manual to aid you in this process.
3. Place the sample on the stage.
A gemological microscope has a special stage. Its stage is capable of holding gemstones regarding of their cut. Empire cut type of stone is most accommodated. Set the precious stone you are going to observe properly at the center of the stage. There would be controls for the stage’s holder. Use it accordingly.
A gemological microscope also comes with different holders for use with gemstones. There are holders available for wire stones and stones with rounded edges. For larger gems, a stage plate can be used.
4. Choose with light source to use.
Most gemological microscopes are equipped with three different light sources namely bright field, dark field, and incident fluorescent illumination systems. Bright field is the most common type of an illumination system. With it, you will be able to inspect the gemstone against a white background. This is perfect for gemstones of darker color.
The dark field illumination system is the opposite of the bright field illumination system. This lighting technique would produce an image of the specimen against a dark background. It is perfect for rubies and emeralds. It is the best technique used if the shape of the gemstone is of primary concern.
The incident fluorescent illumination system produces reflected light on the sample. As such, it is perfect to inspect the clarity and color of diamonds. The fluorescent light that is used in this type of an illumination system is perfect for this application because fluorescent lights don’t put any light stains on the sample under observation.
5. Focus on the gemstone.
Use the different magnification power available on the microscope. There are also auxiliary objectives that can be used with the system, ranging from 1.5x to 2x magnification levels. There are also auxiliary eyepieces. The standard is usually 1x but there are 10x, 15x, and 20x eyepieces available in the market today. Use the right objective-eyepiece combination for optimum results. These microscopes are also equipped with knobs for fine and coarse focusing. It is also possible to control the intensity of the light source. Learn what the knobs found in the microscope are for and used them as intended.
Gemological microscopes may also have rotary and tilting bases. These are going to be helpful in focusing on the specimen more. Change the angle of inclination of the base from the arm so that the sides of the specimen can be observed as well.
These are the steps on how to properly use gemological microscopes. Follow these steps so that you will be able to properly observe precious gems without compromising their value. And by doing all of these, the safety and functionality of the microscope will be ensured.
